Information has now been released that a hacker used malware techniques to steal thousands of Facebook accounts in February, then selling them in bulk on the black market. Verisign’s iDefense director announced that the act is one of many that are taking place across the US. Individuals steal log-in data for Facebook accounts by using malware techniques that track computer keystrokes, and phishing techniques that make Facebook users think they are logging in on an actual Facebook website that is a convincing fake.

World Domination via Facebook Malware

The crime is only the first step in a master plan of social network domination. The stolen Facebook accounts can be used to send fraudulent messages to the user’s friends, spread harmful links, and view sensitive information such as birthdates and home addresses which can be used toward identity theft. Thus, if you are linked to any of the thousands of accounts that were stolen, you may be at risk.

To battle malware attacks on your laptop computer or desktop computer, you should have an updated version of a good anti-virus and anti-spyware program. Anti-spyware software is not necessarily invincible, so if you end up in the market for a computer repair company, call A+ Mobile PC Doctors, the experts in Boston computer repair, at 1-617-723-1986. Our insured technicians offer onsite computer repair and remote desktop PC repair services, virus removal, spyware removal, and more — see our website for a full list of computer repair services.

I’m hoping you don’t have an account on Blippy.com, because if you do you’re in danger of having your credit card information stolen. Blippy.com is a new social networking site for online shopping that isn’t doing a very good job of keeping its customers’ credit card numbers and names under wraps. Equals identity theft. Case in point, this Google search results screenshot courtesy of Gizmodo.com:

Yep, Nate Marshall and Bradd Dantuma should probably consider dumping all of the funds out of their debit card accounts because their full names and credit card numbers are now on the web for all to see. Most of the tech websites that are buzzing about Blippy.com recommend that if you DO have a Blippy account, disable it immediately.

On that note, here are some computer security tips from A+ Mobile PC Doctors, an onsite computer repair company in Boston that has been the area’s top source for efficient computer repair services in Boston since 2002.

• Make sure all your computer security programs are up-to-date.
• When accessing public wifi, DON’T go shopping or log into your online banking account!
• Don’t copy-paste passwords or other sensitive information. It’s easy for websites to steal the information you’ve left on your clipboard. Find out how to disable this on Internet Explorer.

For more computer security tips and computer repair tips, bookmark the Computer Repair Services Blog.

Click here to go straight to our site!

A+ Mobile PC Doctors, a leader in the Boston computer repair and technology services industry serving both residential and commercial customers, is excited to announce the grand opening of our new Boston computer repair and networking shop at 316 Newbury Street, 2nd floor in Back Bay Boston, MA right above Steve’s Cafe on the corner of Newbury and Hereford!

One of the things that sets A+ Mobile PC Doctors apart in terms of computer repair in Boston is that we offer efficient onsite computer repair services as well as networking, low-voltage (structure) cabling and telecom services in and around all of eastern MA, and in select other areas around the country. From this new computer lab, “A+ Mobile” Computer Repair & Networking (as they sometimes call themselves) will work with residential and commercial customers on a wide variety of IT and communications projects both big and small. Since 2002 A+ Mobile have gained a reputation as being a top computer repair company in the Boston area and New England, serving both residential and business customers with equal enthusiasm.

Do you have a hunch that something is wrong with your computer, perhaps a computer virus or malware issue but you don’t know where to start? Speak to a technician today by calling 1 (617) 723-1986. Perhaps we can diagnose the problem over the phone, then arrange to pick up your laptop or schedule an onsite computer repair visit.

Visit our website here!

Or here!

Visit A+ Mobile PC Doctors on the web, where you can read up on some helpful computer security tips. Below is a list of our services and the big brand names that we repair regularly:

Residential Services

• Onsite Diagnostics
• Virus Removal
• Spyware Removal
• Desktop PC Repairs
• Laptop Repairs
• Telecom Services
• Computer Upgrades
• Memory Upgrades
• Wireless Networking
• Routine Maintenence
• Data Backup & Storage
• Data Recovery
• Website Design
• Graphic Design
• SEO Consulting

As a computer repair company in Boston, we try to provide the most current information to our customers on how to prevent the need for major computer repair overhauls. We know how frustrating it can be to find time in the middle of a busy work week or class schedule to drop off your computer for a few days of computer repair services. That’s why we are constantly keeping you up to date on the best ways to secure your computer.

Britain’s Telegraph recently reported a study that concluded that 1 in 4 children have received inappropriate material, including pornography, via email. In response to similar studies, the UK Government has instituted a school program for children called “Click Clever, Click Safe.” Though we don’t have a nationwide program like “Click Clever, Click Safe” in the US, it may be even more important for parents to learn about how to keep their kids safe (and innocent) online.

There are several free and paid browsers and email clients for kids available on the Web, which could cut down the chances of your child receiving a NSFK (Not Safe for Kids) email. Here’s a lowdown on a few of them:

PikLuk - A web browser AND an email client.
Pros: White list option.
Cons: Only for PC. Paid version costs $20 a year.

KidMail - An email service your child can access from any email provider that has POP/SMTP access (Gmail, Thunderbird, etc.). Quarantines emails to your child until you approve them.
Pros: KidMail sends an authentication message to unfamiliar email senders. Prevents NSFK spam.
Cons: Costs $29.95 a year. Time consuming; parents must approve all emails sent to their child.

Even though you might be aware of the consequences of being the victim of an online security breach, your kids could be clueless. Chances are, they might have little to lose, because what kid really has a bank account, credit card, or hundreds of documents that could be lost due to a virus or hack? But think about it. Because you probably use the same computer, your child’s actions could be putting all of your personal files at risk. Here are a few things you can do to safeguard the family computer.

1. Brainstorm a hard-to-crack password. A recent news article revealed the easiest passwords to hack — among them “123456,” “Password,” “abc123,” and “Princess.” Ask your kids what their passwords are, and if they seem obvious, come up with a better 6-letter code.

2. Warn them about phishing. Ask if they’ve ever gotten a pop-up message or email asking for their name, address, phone number, or other personal information. If they have or if they do, forward phishing emails to spam@uce.gov and to the company, bank, or organization impersonated in the phishing email.

3. Update security software regularly. Hackers take advantage of browsers and operating systems that are behind on security updates.

If you find yourself wondering if your computer has a virus, call A+ Mobile PC Doctors to speak with a technician. We perform on-site computer repair and remote computer repair in Boston and nationally, in addition to offering a laundry list of information technology services. Visit us on the web or call us at (617) 723-1986 today.